Honors Theses
Advisor
Justin Biffinger, Ph.D.
Department
Chemistry
Publication Date
4-1-2023
Document Type
Honors Thesis
Abstract
The design of coating formulations that have material properties that can hinder the biodegradation of a protective surface without aggressive or environmentally harmful additives will require a detailed understanding of knowledge gaps at the biotic-abiotic interface involving a variety of microorganisms. This project focused on two isolates extracted from a biofilm which was found to degrade Air Force cargo aircraft topcoats. These organisms, Bacillus megaterium (gram-negative bacterium, non-hydrolytic but alkane oxidizing) and the hydrolytic yeast Papiliotrema laurentii were initially observed as individual cultures and then as a co-culture. The combination of these two organisms (under similar growth conditions) provided a glimpse into more complex biofilm dynamics and the synergies these organisms maintain during the degradation of polyester polyurethane and the more recalcitrant polyether polyurethane topcoat, AS P-108.
Permission Statement
This item is protected by copyright law (Title 17, U.S. Code) and may only be used for noncommercial, educational, and scholarly purposes.
Keywords
Undergraduate research
eCommons Citation
Blumberg, Anna M., "Bacillus megaterium and Papiliotrema laurentii: Competing roles in polymer coating degradation?" (2023). Honors Theses. 388.
https://ecommons.udayton.edu/uhp_theses/388
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